Rwanda Travel Tips

Geography: Rwanda is a landlocked republic in Equatorial Africa, situated on the Eastern rim of the Albertine Rift, a western arm of the Great Rift Valley, on the watershed between Africa’s two largest river systems; the Nile and the Congo. Much of the country’s 26,338 km2 is dramatically mountainous, the highest peak being Karisimbi (4,507m) in the Volcanic Virunga chain protected by the Volcanoes National Park. The largest body of water is lake kivu, but numerous other lakes are dotted around the country, notably Burera, Ruhondo, Muhazi and Mugasera, all of which have erratic shapes following the contours of the steep mountains that enclose them.

Climate: A combination of tropical location and high altitude ensures the most of Rwanda has a temperate year-round climate. Temperatures rarely stray above 30 degrees celsuis by day or below 15 degrees at night throughout the year. The exceptions are the chilly upper slopes of the Virunga Mountains, and the hot low-lying Tanzania border area protected in Akagera National Park. Throughout the country, seasonal variations in temperature are relatively insignificant. Most parts of the country receive in excess of 1,000mm of precipitation annually, with the driest months being July to September.

Language: Rwanda’s official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, English and Kiswahili, spoken throughout East Africa, is also widely spoken throughout the country.

Passport And Visas: A valid passport is mandatory. Visas are required by some nationalities, but they can be issued on the spot at most ports of entry.
In view of bilateral agreements, nationals of the following Countries may visit Rwanda without a visa for a period up to 90 days: Hong Kong, Philippines, Mauritius, Singapore and the Democratic Republic of Congo. EAC Partner states citizens’ shall be issued with 6 months visitors pass (renewable) upon arrival with no fee. Nationals of Australia, Germany, Israel, New Zealand, Republic of South Africa, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States of America will be issued with entry visa valid for a period up to 30 days and pay for a visa ($30) upon arrival without prior application.
Before you travel be sure to contact the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate to obtain the latest information on visa equipment or apply online at www.migration.gov.rw

Money: The unit of currency is the Rwandan franc. The US dollar is the hard currency of preference, but euros and British sterling are also widely accepted. It may be impossible to exchange travelers’ cheques away from the capital. Credit cards are usually only accepted at the major hotels and airlines in Kigali. Cash advances on Visa and MasterCard are available at the counters of selected banks and hotels.

When To Visit: Rwanda can be visited throughout the year. Gorilla tracking and other forest walks are less demanding during the drier months. The European winter is the best time for birds, as Palaearctic migrants supplement resident species.

Getting There: Rwanda is well served regionally and internationally by several airlines, including Rwandair, Kenya Airways, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Fly Dubai. All international flights arrive at Kigali International Airport, 10km from central Kigali.

Getting Around: Rwanda has possibly the best roads in East Africa. Most visitors who have booked through a tour company will be provided with good private vehicles, usually 4wheel drive. All of the major centres are connected with local and luxury bus services. Air charter and helicopter services are available anywhere in the country and are well advertised.

Gorilla Permits: Gorilla permits are most easily arranged by a travel operator, or they can be purchased directly through Rwanda Tourism at their information office in central Kigali.

Health: A certificate of yellow- fever vaccination is required. Much of Rwanda lies at too high an elevation for malaria to be a major concern, but the disease is present and prophylactic drugs are strongly recommended. It is advisable to drink bottled mineral water, which can be bought in all towns. Hospitals are located in all major towns.